Looking at an '81

Hey guys i've been searching for the past several months for an early 80's mastercraft. I've finally found one that's within my price range and what i'm wanting to do however it needs work. The owner has just let this boat sit and the interior is crappy and ripped and new interior is needed. The exterior fiberglass is in excellent shape however it's just stained and the stripes are faded. I'm having a hard time on deciding what to do. If i do get it and fix it up it will be the way I want it and that will be the plus. The only downside is it will just take some time and money.

[SunCoast 83]

What is the price and do you have any pictures?

[kycat2007]

I think we all consider these option at some point. A few details to fix is one thing but overhauls mean you have to get it cheap cheap. Replacing the vynil is not cheap. Carpet etc can be time consuming.

If it was me if I steal the boat maybe but if not I look to buy someting like
http://www.onlyinboards.com/Details.aspx?ID=23616

negotiate it down if you can go out on the lake and have a great time. If you want to add some stuff to it you can but probably doesn't need much.

[ProStar200]

All boats need a little work, if you have the time and the $$$ don't hesitate. Always consider what work and time has to go into the refirb. Work what time and money you may have to spend into lowering the $$$ into your offer. Good luck.

[Muttley]

I suppose you have to weigh out how bad it is... make sure you check out the motor as well.

There are a few guys here that are doing some pretty amazing projects. I think the biggest thing would be the time. No wait.. the money.

It needs to be a labour of love. If you are thinking of buying a cheap boat that needs work to save money, it will probably take more time than you think, yet still cost close to what you might be saving... plus there's the heart ache of not getting it done in time for ski season.

Then again, if you get serious joy out of turning scrap into gold, then there's nothing more rewarding.

[cmw]

Then again, if you get serious joy out of turning scrap into gold, then there's nothing more rewarding. [/quote]

I had the same decision to make back in August. I bought a boat in sad condition. Put the work into it. Wet sanded the hull, some motor work, new carpet, a lot of cleaning and polishing and the boat comes back from the upholstery shop this Friday. Was it worth it? YES! If I sold the boat now I might break even on the money I spent, but not the elbow grease. The boat has new everything and it is something I take pride in bringing back to life. I did not get a terrific deal on the boat, but it was exactly what I was looking for. Something you don't see everyday. Working on it has to be something you enjoy or it is not worth it. All that being said, my next boat will hopefully be one of sodar's old boats. That guy is a nut